Flood Risk Management

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 January 2023

Wednesday, 18 January 2023

Questions (408)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

408. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will clarify an issue regarding the cleaning of a river (details supplied in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1294/23]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

The Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for the maintenance of Arterial Drainage Schemes and Flood Relief schemes completed under the Arterial Drainage Acts, 1945 and 1995 as amended. The maintenance of all drainage schemes carried out under earlier Acts, known as Drainage Districts, is the responsibility of the relevant Local Authority.

Both Akeragh Lough Drainage District, north of Ardfert, and the Banna Drainage District to the west, are under the maintenance responsibility of Kerry County Council as Drainage Districts. The OPW has no responsibility for the maintenance of this river, nor the authority to carry out any maintenance works there.